Abstract: Today's usage of Decision Support Systems (DSS), combined with vetted PLM knowledge bases, allows organizations to save time and money, achieving better and more reliable/fully-documented decisions, a quantum improvement over the widely-used subjective process of selecting complex enterprise software...

Abstract: Integrated enterprise resource planning software normalizes the reporting requirements for a mining company’s various departments. This article loosely shows the parallels between the operations in a mining company and those of a manufacturer whose product is sold on store shelves.

Abstract: It is now imperative that businesses be prudent. With rising volumes of data, traditional analytical techniques may not be able to discover valuable data. Consequently, data mining technology becomes important. Here is a framework to help understand the data mining process.

Abstract: Microsoft released a new version of OLE DB (Object Linking and Embedding Database, based on Microsoft’s Component Object Model or COM) which supports a proprietary data mining specification. It is purported to extend the Structured Query Language (SQL) to allow easier and faster incorporation of data mining queries into existing data warehouse solutions.

Abstract: Data mining has emerged from obscure beginnings in artificial intelligence to become a viable and increasingly popular tool for putting data to work. Data mining is a set of techniques for automating the exploration of data and uncovering hidden truths.

Abstract: Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) addresses the full lifecycle of a product. The focus of most of the current PLM solutions, however, does not make the most of the value available from servicing products after they have been sold. Service Lifecycle Management (SLM) promises valuable business benefits after a product has been shipped to the customer, tapping into the value of the product aftermarket.

Abstract: Mine evaluation studies, including those that support mine water management or environmental compliance, are rife with challenges. The biggest: to quantitatively evaluate alternative approaches for completing projects, and to identify and manage associated risks. Models must be accurate, and yet still take uncertainty into account. Learn how a simulation tool can you help forecast the behavior of complex mining systems.

Abstract: Computerized maintenance management system (CMMS). Enterprise asset management (EAM) system. Computer-aided facilities management (CAFM) system. Integrated workplace management system (IWMS). Each type of facility management solution offers different functionalities and features, and one may be better than another for your company’s needs. Learn more about the differences and how an integrated solution is a “must have.”

Abstract: A new trend is emerging in the world of storage management, and it’s called information lifecycle management (ILM). Just what it is, however, varies significantly from vendor to vendor. Generally, ILM is a strategy for policy-based information management. Its mandate: to provide centralized management of all information assets, aligning storage resources with the value of the data residing in them.

Abstract: Since our research-driven beginnings, Johnson & Johnson Advanced Sterilization Products (ASP) has continually improved the new product development (NPD) process. Detailed process mapping has revealed three tiers of business metrics, starting with drivers and moving up through execution metrics to business performance metrics. When driver metrics improves, so does business performance. Six Sigma tools helps identify specific metrics at all tiers and the causality linkages among them. Each NPD process step at ASP results in a deliverable, and each deliverable relates to a trade-off triangle (cost-time-resources) and, ultimately, to investment dollars. To track performance, ASP calculates how actual NPD decisions and what-if scenarios affect deliverables, alter investment triangles, and thereby influence business results. ASP uses similar process and tools, including the investment triangles and Six Sigma QFD, to make idea management decisions. The IDweb real-time software environment enables both the NPD and idea management processes at ASP. By deploying the strategic planning, idea management, portfolio and pipeline management, process management, and resource management modules of IDweb, ASP has increased throughput by 20 percent and reduced cycle time by 40 percent.

Abstract: Achieving operational excellence is fundamental for Yanacocha, the largest gold producer in South America. In 1999, Yanacocha decided it needed an online system linking its principal management areas (operations, maintenance, logistics, finance, and human resources), in order to optimize efficiency in administering its assets. It turned to Mincom Ellipse as its corporate management system, allowing standardization of its operations worldwide.

Abstract: There’s a buzz in the automotive industry around the concept of “strategic workforce management”—getting the right people, for the right job, at the right time, to improve overall business results. Strategic workforce management goes beyond the traditional role of human resources: it’s a strategic initiative and competitive weapon to help today’s automotive companies drive corporate goals and objectives.

Abstract: The pharmaceutical industry is highly competitive, regulated, and in a permanent state of change. Customers demand instant attention, while suppliers require comprehensive leading edge services with regard to their products. Regulatory authorities require that the industry keep up to date with regulations, following them to the letter. Competitors are always inventing new ways to gain market share, while e-business presents new opportunities and challenges. All the while the pressure to reduce prices and to shorten order cycles is high. Pharmaceutical wholesalers comprise the lifeline within the pharmaceutical industry, providing continuity of supply and facilities for storage. They also offer a range of supporting services, such as information technology systems and product withdrawal notifications, which form an essential part of the total healthcare package. These companies and institutions all operate in an environment where speed and efficiency may mean the difference between life and death. However, the industry has a number of specific requirements that are critical for achieving success in the distribution sector.

Abstract: The challenges that face the manufacturing industry today are also opportunities. Manufacturing is being revolutionized in its processes, routines, and ways of doing business through the growing emergence of order driven production methods. This shift towards demand driven manufacturing is emerging in tandem with the larger currents caused by globalization. This cross industry brief focuses on the manufacturing industry from the standpoint of a demand driven IT solution and is aimed at manufacturing and distribution businesses. It describes some major market trends and issues, provides an overview of IBS supply chain solution, and offers details on how the IBS solution for demand driven manufacturing can address current needs of the industry.

Abstract: The core components of a retail information system are inventory management, inventory optimization, revenue management, sales management, and reports and inquiries. Non-core components can include financial, supply chain management, enterprise resource planning, customer relationship management, and warehouse management systems.

Abstract: Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems are software systems that cover the range of interaction a company has with its current, or potential customers. Its functionality can include marketing automation, sales force automation, help desk, customer service and support, partner management, contract management and creation, project and team management, Internet sales, e-mail response management, analytics, and important technical criteria.

Abstract: Effective IP management requires proper allocation of address space for adequate address capacity as needed, as well as accurate configuration of DHCP and DNS servers. Along with flawless configuration and management of each of these foundational elements of Internet protocol (IP) address management, address managers must also integrate these management functions into the broader IT network management environment.

Abstract: Understanding the nature and specifics of your product development life cycles, and especially new product design and initiation, can help you realize tangible cost savings and will offset the total cost of ownership of a product lifecycle management system.

Abstract: The highly competitive product manufacturing market makes true product lifecycle management (PLM) inevitable. PLM helps companies map product requirements to features, obtain control over product data, preserve product knowledge assets, and enter into the new paradigm of modular product development.